Recently ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ Jacqueline Laurita came out and stated her son has been diagnosed with autism. Since then Jacqueline Laurita has written numerous tweets, blogged about her experience, has put together a team to walk for Autism Speaks and has hosted an event called ‘The Sparkling Event’ benefiting Autism Speaks this past Thursday night.
Jacqueline posted pictures of ‘The Sparkling Event’ on her facebook page and stated, “The Sparkling Event held a "Sparkle Speaks" tricky tray social benefiting @autismspeaks last night at the @thebrownstonenj.” Supporters can go to Jacqueline Laurita’s facebook page for all of the photos.
‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ co-stars, Chris Laurita, Caroline Manzo, Albie Manzo, Lauren Manzo and Chris Manzo were on hand to lend support for the worthy cause, however there was no sign of Teresa Giudice, Melissa Gorga or Kathy Wakile.
‘The Sparkling Event’ which was held at ‘The Brownstone’ included a three course dinner, open bar and entertainment for $100 per person. It was reported that fans lined up to have their picture taken with ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’ and the Manzo children after Jacqueline stood up and spoke about her son’s journey and all children with Autism.
Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. The diagnostic criteria require that symptoms become apparent before a child is three years old. Autism spectrum disorders affect around 1.5 million people in the United States approximately 1 in 88 children.
Symptoms of Autism started appearing around 18 months after Nicholas was born, according to Jacqueline Laurita, including increasingly impaired speech and motor skills. Nicholas was diagnosed with Autism during the taping of Season 4, which is currently airing.
Jacqueline Laurita is also raising money and awareness by participating in the ‘Walk Now for Autism Speaks’ which will be held on Oct. 6th at 10 a.m. in Morris Plains, NJ. You can either choose to walk in the event with Jacqueline and her family or donate to help her reach her $5,000 goal.
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